Chapter Twenty-Two
As much as Katrinahated the rain, it was the downpour that saved the house from burning. In fact, only Robert’s quarters had been scorched. The heavy rain seemed to purify the grounds from that evil man.
She sat at the vanity table in her bedroom the following day and stared at her reflection. Gently, she ran the tip of her fingers across the ugly purple mark marring her skin. The whole right side of her face was bruised, but thankfully, that was the only damage Robert had caused.
Felipe, Felix, and the other men had gone through the house interrogating the servants. Felipe fired Blanca and one other servant. They even discovered the doctor had been assisting Robert. Felipe and Davi were tasked with taking those who had conspired with Robert into Macapá to let the law deal with those criminals. Remarkably enough, the housekeeper, Mrs. Cooney, was the one who set fire to Robert’s rooms. The housekeeper had discovered what Faro was doing, and so she made certain the man burned to death in his own poisonous plant-growing rooms.
Earlier today, Katrina had taken a relaxing bath to ease her aching body. She picked up the brush and carefully pulled it through her damp hair. She braced her hands on the vanity and stood. She tied the sash on her wrapper tightly around her waist as she paced the floor in bare feet. It was still too warm for slippers.
Although it was Christmas, she only wanted to spend it with Felix. It saddened her that her mother had been lying all these years, and Katrina hoped she would forgive the woman in time.
There was so much to think about, but she must decide what to do about her mother. Lucy was still in Macapá, and Katrina knew her mother would be anxiously waiting for some word, especially since it had been several weeks since Katrina left with Felix.
It was a little strange to imagine, but she had inherited a plantation. She didn’t know the first thing about running a rubber tree plantation, but with Felix by her side she was certain they would make this place their own little paradise.
First things first. She needed to marry Felix. True, she should have had her mother here for the ceremony, but she also didn’t want to give Felix time to change his mind. Not that he would... but she still felt very insecure that a man like Felix would want someone like her.
A knock came upon the door. “Who is it?”
It opened and Felix poked his head inside. “It’s just me. Are you dressed?”
She chuckled. “Not really. I’m still in my underthings.”
“Splendid. May I enter?”
She planted her arms on her hips and narrowed her teasing gaze on him. She loved the laughter in his voice. “Didn’t I tell you I’m not dressed?”
His grin widened as he stepped inside and shut the door behind him. “You did. However, I see that you don’t mind my presence in the least.”
“Not at all.” She walked to him and slipped her arms around his waist. “However, you must promise me that you will wait until after we are married before you ravish me.”
Laughing, he wound strong arms around her, pulling her closer. “Oh, what punishment you inflict upon me. Well, I suppose I shall have to wait. Especially since I’m sure you’re still sore from Faro’s treatment last night.”
“I am.”
“Then I shall promise not to ravish you, yet.” He kissed her forehead. “By chance, have you been planning our wedding?”
“I have.”
“And what day should I inform the others to make available?”
Sighing, she smiled. “I haven’t actually picked a day, yet. I’m still deciding on whether I want my mother here.”
He shrugged. “It’s up to you. I can send some men to fetch her if you’d like.”
Her smile left her face, and she shook her head. “I fear she wouldn’t survive the trip. My father was ill because he was poisoned, but my mother’s illness has been with her for years. It’s only getting worse. I believe the best thing for her is to find a doctor straightway.”
“I agree.”
She lifted her hand and stroked his rugged jaw. He was so incredibly handsome, not to mention the kindest man with the largest heart. How had she gotten so fortunate to find a man like him?
“Felix, you have done so much for me. My heart is overflowing with love for you.” She teased the hair on his nape. “Are you certain you want to stay here with me instead of going to England?”
